Apprentice technician Review

as an apprentice I go through 3 month rotational placements around the business learning how to complete the department jobs. The jobs range from simple computer work to designing cables, testing products or support for test equipment.

I have gained a PEO level 2 at college-completed within my first 6 months. I have went on various training courses internal to the business. Currently working towards gaining an HNC/HND in engineering systems. From the workplace I have learnt how to use different programs for design work, how to test products I haven't seen before and how to run different types of test equipment.

There are too many placements within the programme that don't have work for apprentices so 3 months of a placement is wasted not learning new skills. Placements should only be made available and be up and running if there is genuine work that contributes to the business. The college course we are on is irrelevant to our job so becomes a waste of our time and money. The college course should tie in with the work and jobs that we need to do on site.

I feel that as an apprentice group our opinions aren't taken seriously enough. Often as an apprentice group the general consensus is when trying to put forward our views on placements, college and our on site SVQ we don't seem to have these thoughts taken in. Although placement supervisors are often kind and helpful willing to help if you have a problem and attempt to test your knowledge on the tasks given.

Our induction dragged on due the amount of PowerPoint presentations given. Due to some placements not being ready for apprentices these placements weren't organised to deliver tasks for us to complete. In some placements we do get time to complete outstanding college work which has proven beneficial.

Through Moodle our lecturers are able to put up the course work and any other material available online. We also get hints on the questions that will be in the exam i.e. exam style questions.

I haven't had any support for college work from the business but when I have questions based on college work I am able to ask my supervisor or other members of staff in the department for help.

the salary is very good and goes up every year through our apprenticeship. The travelling is an issue as often the traffic is poor and can cause disruptions for making it in on time or making meetings. Socially I have a good amount of disposable income which allows me to do many activities.

There is loads of volunteering at our work often for charity events. our chosen apprentice charity is combat stress and we have came up with many ideas to raise funds for this good cause.

Yes

Until the placement plan is structured so there is tasks and jobs that contribute to the progress of the business I wouldn't recommend. This is ultimately down to luck if you are given a placement plan that gives you these things. But due to the salary and friends you meet I would recommend as the apprentice group is very good.

Research the company before applying or before the interview stage.